As a resident of Dunwoody for approximately 16 years, I deem myself more than qualified to give you my sentiment on the rides at my city’s signature event–Lemonade Days. Snuck in right before AP exam season, Lemonade Days is one of the only occasions I look forward to around this time of year. The innumerable food and beverage vendors, center-stage performances, and full-scale carnival rides make the festival a delightful break from the tension associated with the end of the school year. Unfortunately, my favorite ride, Flying Dutchman, was not present at this year’s Lemonade Days. As I am still recovering from this shock, please bear with me as I commend, but mainly criticize, the surviving rides.
Alien Abduction
Alien Abduction is the most overrated and disappointing ride at Lemonade Days. Not only does it stink of sweat, but you can actually feel the leftover moisture from the pores of riders’ skin on the seats. Why is the line for this ride always inexplicably long? I will never know because the only perk of this ride is when you finally get off with an expected headache. The deafening sound of the seats sliding up and down is almost as awful as feeling the sickening pressure against your head.
Sizzler
Two years ago, I would have awarded Sizzler the title of my favorite ride. Now that I am older and wiser, I know I was a senseless child back then. If you sit on the inside of its two-person seat, it will be a delightful experience for you. However, if you sit on the outside, prepare to experience the horror of your neck attempting to fling off your head while being crushed by your friend on the inside.
Nemesis 360
Also known as the best ride at Lemonade Days, Nemesis 360 is worth the long line. To be completely honest, I used to be scared to go on this ride. However, I quickly got over my fear when I realized how many nine-year-olds were riding it. The ride slows down when you are completely upside down, which intensifies the feeling of your stomach dropping when the coaster completes its full circle. Do NOT ride this amusement after indulging in all of the food trucks though.
Zero Gravity
This is a new addition to the assortment of rides available at this carnival. In my opinion, Zero Gravity is the elite version of Alien Abduction, as both amusements have relatively similar mechanisms where riders stick against the wall because of how fast the vessel is spinning. However, Zero Gravity is superior because the top of the ride is open and tilts while rising, meaning you feel as if you could fall 20 feet to the ground at any point, making it a thrilling experience.
Expo Wheel
Did you even go to Lemonade Days if you did not ride the Ferris wheel? This ride is more about tradition rather than enjoyment, but the Expo Wheel is a perfect break between more stimulating rides to talk with your company or admire the view of the park’s festival. The slow ride is a comfortable experience, especially because the wait is almost equivalent to the duration. The Expo Wheel, in particular, circles at a fairly fast pace, keeping you entertained but relaxed.
Orient Express
If I were to call myself biased about any of these rides, it would be this one. Orient Express was my favorite ride as a little kid, so I feel very nostalgic when I see the dragon running on the tracks. If the ride was bigger and targeted towards older kids, I guarantee that it would be a fan favorite, as it is the flawless mix between thrill and chill.
